Bill > LD1718

This bill establishes the Maine Charter School Commission as a formal public instrumentality of the state government, clarifying and expanding its legal status and operational guidelines. The commission will continue to consist of seven members, with three members from the state board appointed by the state board for 3-year terms, and four members appointed by the Governor for 4-year terms, subject to Senate confirmation. Members must have diverse professional experience in areas like education, social services, business administration, accounting, and nonprofit governance, with the Governor specifically encouraged to consider candidates from traditional public school backgrounds. Commission members are limited to three consecutive terms, may receive legislative per diem compensation, and can be removed for failing to perform their duties. The commission retains its key responsibilities, including adopting rules for charter school authorization, engaging professional staff separate from the state department of education, convening stakeholder groups, seeking funding from various sources, and serving as the sole authorizer for virtual public charter schools. The bill also maintains the requirement for the commission to provide an annual report to the legislative education committee, typically presented in person in January, reinforcing its transparency and accountability to state government.

Education

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=1718&snum=132